A new Ipsos poll conducted for the Montreal Economic Institute reveals increasing dissatisfaction among Canadians regarding federal government spending and taxation levels. The survey, conducted in July 2024, shows a marked shift in public opinion compared to similar polling from the previous year.
Nearly two-thirds (63%) of Canadians now believe federal government spending is too high, a significant increase from 2023. This sentiment is particularly strong in Quebec, where 74% of respondents feel the Trudeau government is overspending.
The poll also indicates growing frustration with income tax levels, with 72% of Canadians considering the amount they pay to be too high — up from 67% in 2023. Only 1% believe their income tax is too low — surely not the 1%?
Transparency and accountability in government spending practices are major concerns, with 70% of respondents expressing dissatisfaction in this area. Furthermore, just 18% believe the federal government is effectively allocating funds to address the most pressing issues facing the country.
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The survey reveals skepticism about recent policy decisions, including changes to capital gains taxation. Despite government assurances that these changes will only affect the wealthy, 73% of Canadians believe middle-class taxpayers will also be impacted. Additionally, 60% think the capital gains tax hike will negatively affect the Canadian economy.
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Carbon pricing remains a divisive issue, with 48% opposing the policy and 39% supporting it. However, there is broad agreement (75% of respondents) that higher corporate taxes lead to increased consumer prices and that taxes on new housing contribute to affordability issues.
Overall, the findings paint a picture of a population feeling increasingly overtaxed, with 77% believing they pay too much in taxes for the services they receive. This sentiment appears to cross demographic lines, suggesting a widespread desire for fiscal restraint and more efficient government spending.
The online poll surveyed 1,038 Canadian adults between July 10-14, 2024, with a credibility interval of ±3.7 percentage points.
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